Modugno Living Nativity

The Modugno Living Nativity

The Modugno Living Nativity is one of the most cherished Christmas events in the territory northwest of Bari. Each year, between late December and early January, the historic center of the town of Modugno, in Puglia, transforms into a large open-air nativity scene: alleys, courtyards, and small squares host the depiction of the nativity and daily life of the past, featuring dozens of actors in period costumes.

The event is organized by the Officina dei Tempi Association of Modugno, which oversees the reconstruction of scenes, the planning of routes, and community involvement. The 2024-2025 winter season marked the eleventh edition of the event, which has now become a well-established tradition for the city.

A journey through the alleys of the historic center

The route winds through the ancient heart of Modugno, with the entrance from Via Municipio, near the Mother Church dedicated to Maria Santissima Annunziata. Along the path, visitors encounter nativity scenes and workshops of ancient crafts: the blacksmith, the carpenter, the baker, the spinners, and other activities that tell the story of the peasant and artisan life of yesteryear. The evening atmosphere, with lights and braziers lit among the stones of the village, makes the experience particularly evocative.

The Grand Procession of the Three Kings

The highlight of the event is the Grand Procession of the Three Kings, which traditionally takes place on the morning of Epiphany, January 6th. The historical pageant travels through the city streets with the Magi, their retinue, and the actors, before reaching the nativity scene: a highly anticipated appointment that brings the calendar of performances to a beautiful close.

A celebration of Modugno tradition

More than just a simple performance, the Modugno Living Nativity is a collective project involving local associations, volunteers, and families. The initiative enhances the heritage of the historic center and local popular traditions, drawing visitors from Bari and the entire Metropolitan City. The formula, renewed year after year with new scenes and sets, combines spirituality, historical memory, and hospitality, offering both adults and children an immersion into the atmosphere of a Puglian Christmas.

2026 Edition

The dates for the 2026 edition have not yet been announced. The event is usually held in the latter part of December and the first days of January, during the evening hours. To find out the updated program, it is best to follow the channels of the Officina dei Tempi Association.